A computer revolution through a child's eyes

A computer revolution through a child's eyes
Within moments of his first crack at an iPhone, my son, Levi, had figured out how to flip from one photo to another by flicking his finger across the screen. He understood with no coaching how to steer the simulated steel ball around the holes in the Labyrinth game by tilting the phone. He loves to type nonsense words on the notepad application using the virtual keyboard, deleting them once they've been read. In the three months since I got the iPhone 3G, Levi has learned to take photos, browse them, change the phone's wallpaper, and, unfortunately, turn off Wi-Fi and switch on airplane mode.My proudest moment came when Levi issued his first tweet, borrowing my account: "Eesfrrgjlphdvlksxnjjktwsdvnjmmkbvvnn." Though it was largely a matter of chance, of course, he could do it because he likes the cute bluebird icon of the Twitterific application, and touching it with his finger triggers entertaining interactions.And I was intrigued when Levi tried unsuccessfully to use the phone's accelerometer to play JellyCar, trying to spur the car by tipping the iPhone so the car would "roll" downhill faster. Note to JellyCar developers: your user interface needs work.Levi's first tweetCNET NewsAs a parent, of course, it's tempting to assume that Levi's accomplishments are the result of his astounding intelligence. But of course much of the credit has to go to Apple and others who've advanced the state of the interface art."Human beings are a lot more programmed to manipulate things with our hands and fingers," said Dan Saffer, a founder of Kicker Studio and author of Designing Gestural Interfaces. "I was at a party with a Microsoft Surface table. There was an infant playing with it, not even a year old, pushing photos around and squealing. It's amazing how much it makes sophisticated computing power accessible to a hugely wide segment of the population."Keyboards and mice aren't being replaced--they offer speed and precision for typing words, entering data, navigating documents, and issuing commands. But they are becoming just one of a host of mechanisms.Touch screens, available on some Hewlett-Packard computers, are a big part of the revolution, letting people interact more directly rather than relying on a mouse, joystick, or other indirect pointing device. Multitouch sensors, which can detect multiple fingers simultaneously, add more sophistication, such as the ability to shrink a photo by making a pinching gesture on a trackpad. Newer Apple laptops offer more extensive use of multitouch, though at this stage only through the trackpad rather than a touch screen.Levi took this picture of his feet with my iPhone while he was sitting in his car seat.LeviComputing devices also are getting ears and eyes. Speech recognition is available in rough form to power phone search on various phones with services from Yahoo, Google, Microsoft, and Vlingo. FluidTunes lets you control your iTunes library by waving your hands in front of a Mac's video camera.Intuitive, physical interfaces aren't just for kids. I was stunned to see my technophobic mother-in-law gleefully bowling with a Wii last year. Sure, she couldn't have installed Nintendo's still-popular gaming device if we'd paid her, but using it was as easy as tossing a pebble in a pond."There are Wii bowling tournaments now for elders. It takes a sport they love, but there's no weight of the ball anymore. They can play it in a wheelchair. It's a huge hit at nursing homes," Saffer said.It's not just that devices are easier to use when you can touch the interface, he said. It's that it's easier to learn by watching others use them."One interesting thing about touch screens is there's this whole realm of observation you don't have with standard computer setups, where the icons are smaller, and it's hard to tell what people are doing by watching," he said. "You can learn how to use an iPhone by watching people flip through it for a second. You can get it in a way you can't with a standard phone, where you're watching people push buttons to get through menus."Of course, immersion helps, too. Levi's parents spend altogether too much time punching at keyboards and staring at screens, so he's got plenty of examples to emulate his elders. As a camera buff, I'm delighted when Levi pretends to take pictures--he made a toy camera out of Lego once.A view of Microsoft's Surface device at the Sheraton Gateway Hotel shows a list of entertainment options for hotel guests.Stefanie Olsen/CNET NewsBut I vacillate between pleasure that he's learning how to use technology and fear that he'll grow up ignorant of the non-electronic world. I'm prone to inordinate "screen time," a term heavily freighted with negative baggage in our household, and Levi's childhood will be far more digitally immersed than mine.And perhaps worse, there's the prospect of losing my status as resident guru. There are plenty of more technically proficient people in my orbit, but none of them live in my house, and Levi doesn't ask any of them to read his typed nonsense words.Most families come to some sort of reckoning when their son beats their dad in basketball. Ours will come when my wife asks Levi for technical support.

How to replace a broken front panel on your iPad

How to replace a broken front panel on your iPad
Once you've created a small gap in one area, work your way around the edge--heating and prying as you go. You'll need to leave spaceholders (like a plastic spudger or guitar pick) in the separated sections, to prevent the panel and case from sticking back together.You'll also need to be very careful when working to the right of the home button. The Wi-Fi antenna is attached to the panel here, and you'll need to gently pry it loose without damaging it.Bill Detwiler/CNETThen disconnect the LCD connector from the main board and set the display somewhere safe.You can now disconnect the broken panel. First, carefully flip up the two locking levers on the digitizer cable connector. As you remove the ribbon cable from the connector, you'll also need to gently peel it away from the main board's metal shielding.Bill Detwiler/CNET3. Remove the home button and camera plateWith the broken panel completely detached, you can remove the home button contact using the Phillips screwdriver. Then using the hair dryer again, heat and remove the bracket and button. Likewise, heat the metal camera plate and pry it loose with a thin blade.Bill Detwiler/CNET4. Install the home button and camera plate on the new front panelUsing the pre-cut adhesive strips or double-sided tape, attach the camera plate to the new panel. Do the same for the home button and the button bracket. Then reattach the home button contact with the screwdriver.Bill Detwiler/CNETAt this point, we're just testing the panel's fit and functionality, so we've haven't applied any of the adhesive strips. Turn the iPad on and verify everything works. If it does, turn the unit off, lift open the panel and apply the adhesive strips.Before closing the panel for the last time, carefully inspect the LCD and inside of the panel for dust. If you see any, gently remove it using a microfiber cloth or puff of air. Avoid touching the inside of the panel's viewing area or the LCD with your fingers or anything else that might damage these surfaces. Once you're sure both surfaces are clean, fold the front panel back onto the metal case and press firmly, but gently along the edges. After removing the panel's protective film (if it has one), your fix is complete.Bill Detwiler/CNETThis is a tough fix. But when done successfully, it can breathe new life into a broken iPad.For more teardown photos of the iPad and other tech, check out my Cracking Open blog on TechRepublic.

An iPhone 3.0 software wish list

An iPhone 3.0 software wish list
Update: We now know the details of iPhone 3.0. Happily, it includes many of the features listed here. Check out the iPhone 3.0 details and read the live blog of the event.As iPhone owners await Tuesday's announcement of the iPhone 3.0 software, the Web is abuzz with speculation about what new features the update will bring. Of course, we couldn't let this opportunity pass without chiming in as well.Ever since the first iPhone was born more than two years ago, and following the introduction of the iPhone 3G last summer, we've made no secret that the iPhone lacks many features we think it should have. We've blogged a few times detailing our complaints, but here you can find a full list in no particular order.We've also browsed through your blog comments and e-mails to see the features that you hope to see. And please feel free to add anything that we've missed.Multimedia messaging - A very basic feature that every other cell phone has. Yet, the good news is that it appears to be a done deal. It's about time.Tethering - From our perspective there hasn't been a huge cry from CNET readers for this feature, but it looks like we're going to get it.Cut and paste - A no-brainer, and one we get from many CNET readers.Text forwarding - Another basic feature that every other cell phone has.A landscape keyboard - It works when using the Web browser, so why not when composing a message or e-mail? There is an app that brings this functionality, but we don't think that we should have to pay extra to get it--even if it is 99 cents.Voice dialing/speed dialing - We know there are apps, but why should you have to pay for functionality that almost every other cell phones has? Sneaky Apple.Real time turn-by-turn directions - This may take a new iPhone, but we're going to throw it in here anyway.Task manager/background processing - CNET readers have been divided on this feature, but we'd like the ability to toggle between running applications.Video recording/more camera options - Yet another feature many basic phones offer. And here again, we don't think that an app cuts it. We'd also like to have more creative control within the camera though options like a digital zoom, a self-timer and a brightness meter.Full search - We'd like this for e-mails, calendar items and contacts all in one convenient place. There are a few apps that bring partial search, but Apple's SDK currently prohibits apps with calendar searching.Send appointments to contacts - While we're on the calendar, we shouldn't have to wait until we're back on our computer to send meeting invites. What more, we'd like to forward contacts as well. Weekly calendar view - This is a small point, but it's one worth mentioning.Resend option for text messaging - As reader michaels1715 said, "Sometimes I want to repeat myself, but I don't want to have to type it all over again!"File transfer/mass storage - If you don't buy an app, you can only transfer files to the iPhone using iTunes. Of course, that makes it impossible to transfer third-party files or use the handset as a mass storage device. More Bluetooth profiles - Stereo Bluetooth may not have the best sound quality, but why not offer the choice of using it. Apple could always make more cash by building a stereo Bluetooth headset. And while we're at it, a Bluetooth file transfer profile would be welcome.Flash support - Just a thought.

Richard Dreyfuss reads the iTunes EULA

Richard Dreyfuss reads the iTunes EULA
Update 4:17 p.m. PT: Want to remix these audio files? We've made downloads available. Go to the end of the post.This Friday's Reporters' Roundtable is on a topic that vexes us all: why are end user license agreements and terms of service so long and convoluted?To get ourselves in the mood for this show, we asked CNET fan (and Academy Award winner) Richard Dreyfuss if he'd help us out by doing a dramatic reading of the Apple EULA. He said yes. So, without further ado, we present to you,Dramatic readings from the iTunes EULAby Richard DreyfussPlease read:Your responsibility:Damages:This one's our favorite:Effective until:Don't miss Reporters' Roundtable live on Friday at noon Pacific at CNET Live. Or catch the recording afterward on the Reporters' Roundtable blog. Our guest for this great discussion will be Gabriel Ramsey, a writer of EULAs and a partner at the San Francisco and Silicon Valley law firm Orrick. Click the Remind Me button here to set up a NudgeMail reminder for this podcast (button will launch your default e-mail app).If you have questions on this topic, send them to roundtable@cnet.com or drop a note in the comments below.In addition to his acting career, Richard Dreyfuss is head of The Dreyfuss Initiative, a nonprofit, nonpartisan effort to reform civics education in America. The views expressed in these recordings or the Reporters' Roundtable podcasts do not necessarily reflect hisopinions.Downloads!By popular request and with Richard Dreyfuss' blessing, we are releasing these audio files under the Creative Commons Attribution license. So if you want to remix these dramatic readings, go for it. Please link back to this post if you do so. Have fun!Please readResponsbilityDamagesEffective Until

How the Grinch iPhone game stole my $1.99

How the Grinch iPhone game stole my $1.99
Maybe I'm feeling extra Grinchy today because stupid iTunes keeps timing out when I sync my iPhone, but I don't like Grinchmas.In this new game from Oceanhouse Media, you're a disembodied Grinch hand that flings snowballs--or presents, if you're in more of a "Merry Grinch" mood--at houses down in Whoville.And that's it. The challenge, if you can call it that, lies in flinging accurately: you have to swipe at just the right speed and in just the right direction to score a hit.If I'm any indication, grown-up players will tire of this in about 18 seconds. The littler Whos in your house might enjoy it for longer--the game skews cute, colorful, and Seussian--but ultimately, Grinchmas works so hard at being "casual" that it forgets to be fun. Skip it.Give your snapshots a fun, Grinch-ian makeover with Dr. Seuss Camera.Oceanhouse MediaThe real Dr. Seuss-inspired fun lies in Dr. Seuss Camera: The Grinch Edition, which uses the iPhone camera to create whimsical, Grinchy holiday cards you can share with friends.Start by choosing from 20-plus different cards, then point your iPhone camera (sorry, Touch users) at the kids, the dog, cranky Uncle Fred, etc.Each card has either a face cutout area or an empty space alongside a Grinch-related character (if not the ol' meanie himself).After you snap the photo, you can decorate it further with stamps and borders, then save it to your Camera Roll and/or e-mail it to friends and family.It's a cute little app, easy to use, and a perfect slice of holiday fun. Here's hoping that "The Grinch Edition" subtitle means there are other versions in the works. (I've always wanted a photo of myself next to Horton the Elephant.)

Shipments for all iPad Minis with Wi-Fi pushed back 2 weeks

Shipments for all iPad Minis with Wi-Fi pushed back 2 weeks
Consumers ordering an iPad Mini will need to wait a couple more weeks to get their hands on the device.Apple's store currently lists all iPad Minis with Wi-Fi as shipping in two weeks. Preorders on the tablet kicked off Friday and promised a November 2 shipment. But very quickly, the white iPad Mini showed a two-week delay for new orders. The black models were still available at the time. But now all models are listed as shipping in two weeks.Apple's iPad Mini comes with a 7.9-inch screen. The Wi-Fi only model, which starts at $329, will launch Friday. Apple plans to ship an iPad Mini with LTE service toward the end of November. It had been rumored that the iPad Mini with LTE would be available two weeks after the Wi-Fi-only model, but reports last week suggested that the launch date might be pushed back.Meanwhile, the iPad Mini is apparently a costly product to manufacture. At his company's earnings call last week, Apple CFO Peter Oppenheimer said the "iPad Mini's gross margin is significantly below the corporate average." He went on to tell shareholders and analysts that his company is "going to work to get down the cost curves and be more efficient in manufacturing."This content is rated TV-MA, and is for viewers 18 years or older. Are you of age?YesNoSorry, you are not old enough to view this content.Play

See an iPad being built at a Foxconn factory

See an iPad being built at a Foxconn factory
Ever want to see an iPad being made?Rob Schmitz, the public radio journalist who exposed Apple commentator Mike Daisey's fabrications regarding working conditions at a Chinese electronics factory, recently got a first-hand look at how the iPad is made.Schmitz, the bureau chief of Marketplace Shanghai, is only the second Western journalist to have access to the factory floor since Daisey's falsified report about hazardous working conditions suffered by employees at a Foxconn factory in China. Schmitz has been filing reports for public radio as well as writing a blog on his experience at Foxconn. During one visit, Schmitz took a film crew on a tour of Foxconn's Longhua facility in the city of Shenzhen, where Apple's iPad is produced. Schmitz's video tour (see below) takes us from construction of the device's motherboard to installation of its touch screen, as well as testing of each unit's gyroscope.His video also shows people lined up outside the factory, hoping for a chance to get a job, which pays $14 a day to start.

Apple expands iBooks Textbooks around the world

Apple expands iBooks Textbooks around the world
Apple has aimed two of its educational offerings at more schools, teachers, and students throughout the world.iBooks Textbooks and iTunes U Course Manager have both rolled out to new markets in Asia, Latin America, and Europe, Apple said on Tuesday. iBooks Textbooks is now available in 51 countries, including Brazil, Italy, and Japan. iTunes U Course Manager can be found in 70 countries, now including Russia, Thailand, and Malaysia.Related stories:Apple launches iBooks 2 digital textbooksHow to figure out the new iTunes UiBooks Textbooks offers iPad users interactive textbooks with straight text, animations, videos, rotating 3D diagrams, and photo galleries, all of which can be updated when new information is available. Almost 25,000 textbooks are available from such publishers as Cambridge University Press and Oxford University Press, according to Apple."Oxford University Press is using iBooks Author for Headway, Oxford's all-time best-selling English language series, to create engaging iBooks Textbooks for iPad," Peter Marshall, managing director of the ELT Division at Oxford University Press, said in a statement. "In releasing 13 new iBooks Textbooks, including 'Headway Pre-Intermediate,' the best-selling level in the series, we are enriching the language learning experience for students around the world."iTunes U Course Manager lets teachers and others create their own course material for the iPad. They can combine their own documents with content from the Internet, other iTunes U collections, and iOS apps to design their own courses. Teachers can then distribute those courses to their own classrooms or post them via iTunes U for the public to access.

Apple- Don't make nuclear weapons using iTunes

Apple: Don't make nuclear weapons using iTunes
I've been feeling a little crabby this week.People have been annoying me for seemingly no good reason. But it hasn't yet gotten to that stage where I want to build a nuclear weapon and set it upon them.I mention this only because, should I reach that demented level, I cannot use iTunes in the manufacture of that weapon.You see, I have an iTunes account. And, thanks to the diligent Jim Dalrymple at The Loop, I now realize that I have already agreed not to design or produce nuclear weapons with the help of Apple's melodious software.The warning in the End User License Agreement comes after a warning that you mustn't export or re-export to "anyone on the U.S. Treasury Department's Specially Designated Nationals List or the U.S. Department of Commerce Denied Persons List or Entity List." I am not sure if this includes Edward Snowden.This same Paragraph G goes on to say: "You also agree that you will not use these products for any purposes prohibited by United States law, including, without limitation, the development, design, manufacture or production of nuclear, missiles, or chemical or biological weapons."I know that quite a few scientifically minded people read this blog. And, judging by the comments, there are also a few irascibly minded people too. Perhaps, therefore, someone might suggest how on earth one could possibly use iTunes for such nefarious purposes.Naturally, this revelation might also cause many to wonder whether they've agreed not to create genetically modified exploding marsupials using Microsoft Word.It could be that, in some flickering, hurried moment, you've also agreed not to produce stealth bombers with the help of Instagram. Or even laser guns using Twitter.The possibilities are truly limitless. (I have embedded a CNET recording of Richard Dreyfuss reading some of the Apple License Agreement, to relax you.)That's why we have lawyers -- to protect us from other people, of course. But most of all, to protect us from ourselves.

Apple could make 22 million iPhones next quarter

Apple could make 22 million iPhones next quarter
In an investor's note released yesterday, Kumar said the next iPhone, expected to launch in October, could account for almost 25 percent of the total volume in the fourth quarter, leaving the iPhone 4 to grab the lion's share of Apple smartphone customers over the rest of the year.Rumors have run rampant as to whether the iPhone 5 would represent a major upgrade over the iPhone 4, or sport just a few changes but retain the same basic features as its predecessor. Some reports have suggested that Apple could even unveil two phones--one a new and improved iPhone 5; the other a lower-cost version of the iPhone 4.Kumar's opinion is that the new iPhone would be an "upgrade and not a complete redesign," and that the iPhone 4 would then be sold as a less expensive device, starting in October. The analyst believes that Apple could then continue to sell the iPhone 4 until a completely redesigned iPhone hits the market sometime next year.Although many Apple users have been eagerly awaiting the debut of the next iPhone, the iPhone 4 continues to see strong demand as the best-selling smartphone at both AT&T and Verizon Wireless, Kumar added.Manufacturing 22 million iPhones certainly isn't out of reach, as long as the supply chain can handle it. Apple sold 18.65 million iPhones in its fiscal second quarter and 20.34 million iPhones in its fiscal third quarter, which ended June 25. Ironically, 22 million is also the number of iPads that investment analyst Jason Schwarz thinks Apple will sell in the fourth quarter.Related stories:• iPhone 5 rumor roundup• Could we have two new iPhones this year?• iPhone 5 now rumored to launch October 7• Sprint to sell iPhone 5 in October, report says• T-Mobile to get iPhone 5 as well, report saysThe rumor mill about the next iPhone continues to run hot and heavy. Some of the latest stories suggest that both Sprint and T-Mobile will pick up Apple's flagship phone.

Apple could integrate projectors directly into iOS devices

Apple could integrate projectors directly into iOS devices
Your future iPhone or iPad could come with its own projector.Granted to Apple on Tuesday by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, a patent called "Projected display shared workspaces" envisions a technology that would integrate small projectors into iOS devices and give users the ability to control their presentations with gestures.The technology would rely on the built-in camera to detect the shadows and silhouettes created through gesturing at the projected areas. The projector technology also could work among multiple displays from multiple devices. Again using gestures, users could share and swap images from one projected display to another.As the patent describes it:In one embodiment, electronic devices each may include a projector that produces a projected display and a camera that detects gestures made with respect to the projected displays. The electronic devices may interpret gestures on the projected displays to identify image sharing commands for sharing images between the projected displays. The electronic devices may be connected through a communication link that allows the electronic devices to share image data for producing images on any of the projected displays included within the shared workspace.There are gadgets on the market right now that can turn your iPhone into a mini projector. But Apple's integrated invention could take the technology a few steps further with its gesture-based image-sharing features.(Via PatentlyApple)

Apple could include LinkedIn for deep iOS 7 integration

Apple could include LinkedIn for deep iOS 7 integration
Even though Twitter has been Apple's pick of social networks to be integrated into iOS 7, it's looking like LinkedIn could also make it to the chosen circle.Developers have found code-based references to deep LinkedIn integration in the beta version of iOS 7, which was supplied by Apple, according to 9to5Mac. This code shows that a single sign-on system is in the works for the professional social network -- much like how iOS currently works with Facebook and Twitter.The developer that supplied 9to5Mac with the code sheets said that certain bits of code are missing for the integration to be activated. This could mean that Apple and LinkedIn are still currently in talks about the possible integration. According to 9to5Mac, Apple has tossed social networks from iOS integration before. For instance, iOS 4 tested Facebook integration, but it didn't happen until iOS 6. What exactly does deep integration mean? Well, for Twitter on iOS 7, it means a lot. Besides the social network being included in Shared Links, searches, and linked with Siri, there will also be a featured music station on Apple's iTunes Radio that plays tracks trending on Twitter. For now, Facebook is only being integrated with iOS 7 -- not deeply integrated.When Apple announced the debut of iOS 7 at WWDC last week, it heralded many of the operating system's new features, but it also left out some details. An initial beta of iOS 7 was released to developers last week, in what is expected to be the first of several ahead of its release. Over the last few days, several developers have been posting various tricks, updates, and features that they've discovered and believe will come with the new operating system.Apple has not provided an exact date for its release, short of this fall, when the company is also expected to introduce its next iPhone. There are still no beta versions of iOS 7 available for iPads, just the iPhone and latest-generation iPod Touch.

Apple could drop iPhone 3GS next week, says report

Apple could drop iPhone 3GS next week, says report
The introduction of the iPhone 5 is expected to shake up the overall iPhone lineup.Apple will hold a launch event on Wednesday, September 12, at which it will probably unveil the next-generation iPhone. Several reports say that the iPhone 5 will go on sale the following Friday, September 21.The new model means that Apple could curtail the aging iPhone 3GS, leaving the 8GB version of the iPhone 4 as the entry-level edition, says the Telegraph. If so, that model iPhone 4 would probably be offered for free by Apple and other vendors when paired with the usual $30-per-month contract.Sources close to retailers also told The Telegraph that Apple may even launch an 8GB version of the iPhone 4S.Related storiesiPhone 5 prepares to take flight: Will it soar above rivals?iPhone 5 sales could hit 10 million in first weekiPhone 5 on shopping list of majority of iPhone 4 ownersiPhone 5 rumor roundupThree versions of the iPhone 5 will be offered with different storage options, according to the publication, probably sticking with the 16GB, 32GB, and 64GB variations available with the iPhone 4S.If true, this tidbit from the Register isn't a huge surprise since Apple typically carries three generations of the iPhone at a time, with the earliest model usually going for free.The 8GB iPhone 4 is currently selling for $99, while the iPhone 3GS is available free with the usual contract.And an 8GB iPhone 4S could easily serve as another alternative to budget-conscious consumers.(Via MacRumors)

Apple could blend in Siri with future smart docks

Apple could blend in Siri with future smart docks
You may one day be able to chat with your iPhone or iPad docking station courtesy of Apple's Siri.A patent application -- dubbed "Smart dock for activating a voice recognition mode of a portable electronic device" and published Thursday by the US Patent and Trademark Office -- scopes out plans for a dock a bit more advanced than today's models.Key to the new dock would be integration with Siri. Rather than including Apple's voice assistant, the dock would tap into Siri on your mobile device. You'd activate Siri simply by speaking or making a noise, such as clapping your hands or snapping your fingers. You could then ask Siri to perform an array of tasks through your dock, such as playing a song, sending and viewing e-mail, listening to voice mail, setting an alarm, checking the weather, and browsing the Web.Moving beyond Siri, the dock would have its own display screen, touch interface, remote control, and Wi-Fi, as well as a speaker and microphone. Apple also envisions room for external accessories, such as a removable hard drive and a GPS sensor.Apple describes the technology in typical patent verbiage:A dock for a portable electronic device including a housing, a connector extending from the housing to connect the portable electronic device to the dock, a microphone integrated within the housing, and a processor. The processor is operatively coupled to receive audio input from the microphone, and in response to the audio input, transmit a message to the portable electronic device via the connector to activate a voice recognition mode of the portable electronic device.Samsung and other companies already sell smart docks that can turn your mobile device into a small computer by connecting a monitor, keyboard, mouse, and other accessories. But Apple's concept offers the added twist of Siri, letting you use your dock simply through the sound of your voice.(Via AppleInsider)

Apple eyes India stores, but laws may hold it back

Apple's retail stores are expanding their footprint globally. But now, their move into India could be held back.Earlier today, the Economic Times reported that Apple is currently considering opening stores in India. However, The Wall Street Journal reported today, citing sources, that the company is subject to a law that requires all foreign retailers to source 30 percent of their product sales from local companies. In other words, 30 percent of the products sold in the stores must have come from an Indian partner.For Apple, that's a problem. The company currently relies on companies like Foxconn and others to produce its products in China. Apple does have some outsourced activities in India, which could help the company bring its stores to the country. However, one Journal source says that such a relaxation of the laws could take "a couple of years" to be completed.Such changes are by no means unprecedented. Late last year, India nixed a rule that would allow companies selling their own products to own at most, 51 percent, of the operation. Now, they can own it all.Apple has been quickly expanding its retail presence around the world. Last week, in fact, the company opened a second store in Hong Kong. Apple currently doesn't have any stores in India.CNET has contacted Apple for comment on the Journal's report. We will update this story when we have more information.

Apple eyes flexible OLED screen for its smartwatch, says report

Apple may outfit its much-rumored smartwatch with a flexible display, says Korean news site Chosun Ilbo.Citing information from "industry sources," Chosun Ilbo said Tuesday that the iWatch would be equipped with a plastic OLED screen capable of being bent. Other smartwatches, such as Samsung's Galaxy Gear, offer a rigid display.Apple also is reportedly cooking up three separate models for the iWatch, each with a different sized screen. "A prototype of the 1.5-inch has already been made," one of the sources said. A 1.3-inch model and a 1.4-inch model will also be part of the lineup.Rumors have been floating about this year that Apple would join the smartwatch club with its own unit dubbed the iWatch. As expected, Apple has been mum about such a device. But analysts and industry watchers believe the company needs a new breakthrough product. And although the smartwatch arena is growing more crowded, an iWatch could easily disrupt the market.(Via TechRadar)